Esther Okoronkwo delivered a stunning second-half performance to earn the TotalEnergies Player of the Match award as Nigeria eased past Tunisia 3-0 in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Group B clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
With Nigeria leading 2-0 at halftime but struggling for rhythm, head coach Justin Madugu made a bold call, replacing goal scorer Asisat Oshoala with Okoronkwo at the break.
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The 27-year-old striker responded with a performance that not only justified the substitution but also turned the tide of the game in Nigeria’s favour.
In just 45 minutes, Okoronkwo brought renewed energy and tactical sharpness. She constantly stretched the Tunisian defence, dropped deep to link up play, drew fouls, and provided a perfectly weighted assist for Chinwendu Ihezuo’s 84th-minute goal that sealed the 3-0 win.
“It doesn’t matter where I start — what matters is the impact I have on the game,” Okoronkwo said after the match, her jersey drenched and smile wide in the mixed zone. “Every time I step on the pitch, I’m ready to give my all.”
From her first touch, Okoronkwo imposed a new tempo. Her presence forced Tunisia to reorganize defensively, and she nearly contributed to another goal in the 73rd minute with a powerful run and cutback that Uchenna Kanu buried — only to see the effort ruled out for offside.
“That’s what I expect from her,” said Coach Madugu in his post-match remarks. “She doesn’t need to score to be important. She reads the game well, anticipates movements, and creates opportunities. Today, she changed the dynamic of the match.”
The numbers backed up her influence, 24 touches, 88% pass accuracy, two chances created, three fouls won, and one assist — all in just one half of football.
While Oshoala had netted in the first half, her overall performance lacked fluidity. Okoronkwo’s energetic display offered a contrast that reinvigorated the Super Falcons’ attacking play.
Her efforts earned her the Player of the Match award — a rare feat for a substitute, but one fully deserved for a performance that combined quality, grit, and intelligence.
Nigeria, now sitting comfortably atop Group B, continue their hunt for a 10th WAFCON title with their next fixture set to test their growing momentum.
